ChatGPT Gains Activity Timeline Feature on Mac—Should You Enable It?

OpenAI has rolled out an update for its ChatGPT macOS app, introducing the Computer History feature. This tool generates a timeline of user activity by tracking interactions in applications and on websites. The data can be used to analyze workflows, automate tasks, and integrate with the AI assistant. The feature is exclusive to paid subscriptions: Pro, Business, and Enterprise.

Unlike its predecessor, Chronicle—which captured screenshots—Computer History collects only metadata about interactions, such as clicks, text input, and app switches. Users can select which programs and websites to include in monitoring and can pause or disable data collection entirely. However, the collected information is stored in unencrypted local files, posing potential privacy risks.

Developers emphasize that Computer History is an optional feature requiring explicit user consent. In corporate accounts, access is managed by the company’s administrator. The tool allows users to ask ChatGPT questions about recent work, such as: “What was I working on before my break?” or “Where can I find the document I searched for this morning?” This streamlines task organization and boosts productivity, though experts recommend using the feature cautiously, particularly when handling confidential data.